Live Like an F1 Driver

We are never one to shy away from a challenge here at Ape to Gentleman, so when Sure Men came to us with their Special Edition Williams Racing Antiperspirant, and the challenge of living like an F1 driver, we had to say yes.

As most of you will know, F1 is one of the most demanding sports on the planet where a driver can experience up to 5G-forces under braking and cornering, speeds of over 200mph, 0-60mph in around 2s and a heart rate that will nudge 200bpm at times, and average at 150bpm for long periods. Experts predict blood pressure will rise by 50% and a typical race is reckoned to be the equivalent of running a marathon and burning 1,200 calories. You should also bear in mind that cockpit temperatures can exceed 50oC, and a driver must be at maximum concentration levels for 2 hours or over 200 miles.

The two key areas of battling the demands of F1 are diet and exercise, amongst many other factors, so Sure’s challenge was appropriate. We were given a diet and nutrition plan to be followed for five days in advance of a racing weekend of motor racing. Sure worked with the Williams Racing fitness team and nutritionist to devise an exercise, diet and nutrition plan inspired by that of Valtteri Bottas and Felipe Massa.

Exercise

Ape’s editor- Chris Beastall about to head off for a run

As you’d expect, driving an F1 car places various demands on the body, all of which the programme we were given catered for; weight training for strength, cardio for improved fitness and circuits- a mix of the two.

Diet

Pan fried salmon, asparagus shoots, brown rice, kale and sun-dried tomatoes

We were given a suggested meal plan, which aimed to deliver a macronutrient ratio of 40% protein, 40% carbohydrates and 20% healthy fats.

  • Protein examples: Mackerel, lean mince beef, tuna or turkey.
  • Complex carbohydrate examples: legumes, quinoa, vegetables and fruit.
  • Healthy fats examples: avocado, eggs, nuts, olives and olive oil.

We were given a strict diet plan to follow- but saying that, it was throughly tasty and easy to prepare.

Conclusion

Being honest- the initial task seemed a little overwhelming- with late nights at the office, travel and photoshoots to juggle, fitting everything in was going to be a challenge.

By the end of the 5 days however, realisation set in- the food was easy to prepare, and quick, and the exercise plan whilst gruelling was something to be committed to, and for the greater good (of myself).

The new Sure Williams Racing Antiperspirant, part of the Sure range contains Motionsense; a breakthrough patented technology containing microcapsules that break with friction to release bursts of freshness all day. It’s a great way to stay prepared and keep sweat under control whether you’re in the unpredictable seat of a Williams Racing F1 driver or a blogger under pressure (RRP 125ml, £3.29*). *Price is at the sole discretion of the retailers.

During the programme there was a point mid-way through where two things happened; one- being healthier through eating right and exercising more certainly aids concentration, energy levels and general well-being and two- realising just how dedicated an F1 driver has to be. Not sure I’m quite ready for a racing weekend of motor racing, although given the chance- I wouldn’t say no.

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Chris Beastall

Chris is the Founder and Editor of Ape to Gentleman. His interests lie in men's style, male grooming and leading a better lifestyle - through minimalist, basic and clean design.